Top 8 Product Owner Certifications in 2024

In the agile scrum process, a product owner represents the target audience, stakeholders, and the business they represent. The rest of the team must convey the vision for the product that they have understood. This implies that they oversee collaborating with user groups and stakeholders to ascertain their needs. Agile Training is a great approach to introducing the fundamentals of product ownership into your workplace culture. 

But do you want to lead product development while speaking the language of agile? Then product owner certifications equip you with the skills and knowledge to lead the charge. There are several well-respected certifications available, each catering to different experience levels. So, whether you're looking for a professional certification or an advance level product owner certification, here is a complete list with details about the best product owner certifications here.

What is a Product Owner Certification?

Product owner certification displays your ability to collaborate with a scrum team, whose job it is to increase the value of product delivery. This includes the development of the product backlog, task management, and ensuring the deliverables adhere to the "Done" requirements. The product owner's role is responsible for the finished products that the development team creates, according to the scrum handbook. Your product owner certification further demonstrates your understanding of the steps necessary to guarantee positive outcomes. 

Why Get Product Owner Certifications?  

Pursuing best product owner certifications is a transformative journey for professionals like me. It's about enriching one's understanding of Agile methodologies, honing skills in product management, and elevating one's role within the Agile community. Certifications not only bolster one's expertise but also validate the ability to lead product development effectively, making one an indispensable asset in this dynamically evolving Agile landscape. In the following sections I discuss some of the best certifications for product owners. 

8 Best Product Owner Certifications in 2024

Certification	Accreditation	Level	Required Exam	Exam Fee (USD)	Prerequisites
1. Professional Scrum Product Owner (PSPO)™	Scrum.org	Advanced	Professional Scrum Product Owner Assessment	$200	None
2. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)®	Scrum Alliance	Foundational	CSM (Certified Scrum Master) course completion or equivalent knowledge	Varies	None
3. Scrum Product Owner Accredited Certification	Exin	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies
4. PMHQ Product Owner Certification Course	PMHQ	Varies	Course completion exam	Varies	None
5. APMG International Agile Project Management	APMG	Foundational	Agile Project Management Foundation and Agile Product Owner certifications	Varies	None
6. Certified SAFe® Product Manager	Scaled Agile Framework	Varies	SAFe 5 Product Management exam	Varies	None
7. PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)®	Project Management Institute	Intermediate	PMI-ACP exam	$395 (PMI members)	PMP or 2,000 hours project experience, 21 hours agile project experience
8. Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (ACSPO)	Scrum Alliance	Advanced	CSM (Certified Scrum Master) course completion, CSPO certification, minimum 12 months experience as a Product Owner	Varies	CSPO certification

1. Professional Scrum Product Owner™ (PSPO)

LinkedIn 

The degree of expertise necessary to get a certification directly affects its worth. By that standard, the Scrum Product Ownership options are evaluated on PSPO evaluations. The test's subject matter is updated and revised regularly. PSPO I, PSPO II, and PSPO III are the three levels for the Professional Scrum Product Owner evaluation.  

• Rating: 4.8 / 5.0  
• Pricing: Fee for PSPO I, PSPO II, and PSPO III assessment are 200 $, 2550$, and 500$ respectively. The training fees may vary with the provider.  

Who can take PSPO Certification? 

The Professional Scrum Product OwnerTM assessment can be taken by anyone who wishes to demonstrate their comprehension of the Scrum framework and ability to support value development and delivery. You can select any of the available assessments from the three levels based on your expertise and skills.  

Certification Training   

Professional Scrum Product Owner™ Level I (PSPO™) Training by KnowledgeHut  

It is an accredited training course by KnowledgeHut which includes 16 Hours of Live Instructor-Led Online Training and the opportunity to Earn 16 PDUs and 16 SEUs with comprehensive exam support.  

Certification Outline   

• Exam: PSPO-I  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 85%   
• Time: 60 minutes   
• Number of Questions: 80   
• Format: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer, and True/False   
• Difficulty: Intermediate   
• Language: English  
• Exam: PSPO-II  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 85%  
• Time limit: 60 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 40  
• Format: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer  
• Difficulty: Advanced  
• Exam: PSPO-III  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 85%  
• Time limit: 120 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 35  
• Format: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer  
• Difficulty: Advanced

2. Certified Scrum Product Owner® (CSPO®)

12 Principles Consulting 

The Scrum Alliance provides the industry's most reputable accreditation, which is in demand by industry-leading brands. For those seeking the best product owner certification, the Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) from Scrum Alliance is a top choice. Every Scrum Alliance certification, including the CSPO, comes with a free membership, allowing you to actively advance your career in agile beyond the classroom.

You may use the Certification Mark in products you produce, such as electronic and print marketing and other promotional materials, to show your status as a Certified Scrum Product Owner expert. Because the Certification Mark is an adjective, it must always be used after a noun (e.g., "Certified Scrum Product Owner certification or developer or professional"). The CSPOs decide what the team will develop to ensure that the most beneficial, significant products reach clients.  

• Rating: 5/5   
• Pricing: Fee of around 1000$ to 1200 $ including the training provider and assessment costs.
• Who can take CSPO® Certification: Anyone who values (or wants to learn more about) the project’s business side would benefit from a Certified Scrum Product Owner® (CSPO®) certification.

Recommended Certification Training:

This unique training course provides you with immersive and simulated real–time simulated learning, including case studies, Scrum Activities, and Role Plays. You also earn 16 PDUs and 16 SEUs with a 2-year membership with Scrum Alliance and the opportunity to be trained by renowned certified scrum trainers.16 PDUs and 16 SEUs with a 2-year membership of Scrum Alliance.

• Certification Outline  
• Exam: CSM test  
• Exam Eligibility: 2-day in-person or 14 hours live CSPO online training from a CST  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 74%  
• Time limit: 60 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 50  
• Format: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer  
• Difficulty: Intermediate

3. Scrum Product Owner Accredited Certification™

It is offered by International Scrum Institute™. The International Scrum InstituteTM recognizes twelve important online Scrum certification programs that were created by a collection of well-known business and people leaders, agile coaches, mentors, experts, and authorities from all major sectors. Once you register, you will get an access ticket which can be gratuitously reactivated up to ten times if you fail your certification exam on your first attempt, allowing you to retake it without incurring further costs. Your whole registration fee will be absolutely and hassle-free refunded if you still fail on your last attempt.

Through this product owner certification, you can find out the responsibilities of important Scrum roles, including the Scrum Master, Scrum Product Owner, Scaled Scrum Expert, and Scrum Team Member as well as their most important behaving and thinking traits. Consequently, you may select the Scrum job or roles that best suit your professional and personal talents. So that you may grow in your career more swiftly and efficiently! 

• Rating: 4/5   
• Pricing: A test fee of around 150$.  
• Who can take SPOAC: The certification test has no eligibility criteria in common. It can be taken as eligibility for Scrum Master, Scrum Product Owner, Scaled Scrum Expert, and Scrum Team Member.  

Recommended Certification Training  

Certificate training materials can be downloaded here for free. 

• Certification outline  
• Exam: SPOAC™ test  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 60%  
• Time limit: 60 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 50  
• Format: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer  
• Difficulty: Intermediate

4. PMHQ Product Owner Certification Course

A top-notch global program from Product Manager HQ, recognized as one of the best product owner certifications PMHQ Product Owner Certification Program gives you the tools, frameworks, methodologies, and knowledge required to successfully take on the challenges of one of the IT industry's most sought-after professions. Access a thorough curriculum that will provide you with the information, encouragement, and tools you need to advance your product ownership career. It follows a self-paced learning pathway which may mean that some candidates will find a vast range of quizzes and assignments along with a capstone project in the course.  

You learn the fundamentals of agile product management, how to create a business model, how to test your ideas, scrum foundations, team dynamics, stakeholder management, how to answer questions about product owners in interviews, and how to stand out in the hiring process if you want to become a product owner.  

• Rating: 4/5   
• Pricing: Program Enrollment Fee costs around 499$   

Who can take PMHQ Product Owner Certification  

There are no prerequisites for this course, nor do you require any prior technical knowledge.  

1. Prospective or present product owners who wish to advance their product ownership knowledge.  
2. If you lack formal education and work experience in project management, computer science, or software engineering.  
3. If you're not sure if learning to code and going for a career in software engineering is the right move for you. You prefer the cross-functional skills it necessitates as a product owner.  
4. If you're not sure if you want to work solely in sales or in a customer-facing role. A hybrid stance that combines the greatest features of both is what you desire.  
5. Courses and boot camps for the IT sector are either superficial or extremely technical and jargon filled.  
6. If you lack the specific expertise or equipment required to stand out in Product Owner interviews.  
7. If you are interested in the Product career and want to learn more about the job and duties, you should enroll in the course.  

Recommended Certification Training  

Certificate training materials are provided as video materials after enrolling for the course.   

• Certification outline  
• Project: Capstone Project  
• Language: English  
• Time limit: Self-Paced  
• Format: Assignment and Quizzes  
• Difficulty: Intermediate 

5. APMG International Agile Project Management (AgilePM®)

APMG Store - APMG International 

The course's objective is to provide product owners with the resources they need for quicker and more effective product creation, testing, and delivery. It also assists managers in preventing a rise in product development costs.  

The Agile PM certification fosters several, including:  

1. Fostering a culture of lean and agile practices   
2. Possibility of creating speedier, more straightforward development processes  
3. How to implement agile concepts in any industry  
4. Adopting an Agile methodology that is results-based will lower the likelihood of project failure.  
5. Use Agile to manage and conclude projects more successfully.  
6. Using lean/agile work management strategies, increase agility  
7. Methods for facilitating and providing assistance in an Agile project.  
8. The management and prioritization of requirements using agile methods.  

• Rating: 4/5   
• Pricing: It costs around $510. Certification training is optional.  

Who can take: Agile PM Practitioner  

1. Agile learners who have finished the Agile foundation certification.  
2. Members of an agile team who aspire to manage agile projects and products.  

Certification Training  

You can custom assign a training provider by visiting Agile PM Foundation and Practitioner. You will also get study materials to prepare for the certification.  

• Certification Outline: Agile PM Practitioner  
• Exam: Agile PM Practitioner  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 50%  
• Time limit: 150 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 4 Open book (AgilePM Handbook)  
• Format:  Multiple Answer  
• Difficulty: Intermediate

6. Certified SAFe® Product Manager

Scaled Agile 

SAFe® Product Manager/Product Owner Training course places a strong focus on the responsibilities of a product manager and owner in line with the SAFe® Framework, making it one of the best certifications for product owners. The efficient management of solutions, communication with stakeholders, success as a product owner, and many other concepts are covered by learners. One of the thirteen certifications that Scaled Agile offers, ranging from fundamental to advanced levels, is SAFe POPM. SAFe Agile Software Engineer, SAFe Scrum Master, SAFe Program Consultant, and more are also available.  

• Rating: 4/5   
• Pricing: Depending on the course, prices start at about $595. Exam fees are covered by courses. 
• Who can take Certified SAFe Product Manager: Members of an agile team who aspire to manage projects and products based on the SAFe Framework. 

Recommended Certification Training:

SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM) Certification Training includes    

1. Training for the SAFe® POPM exam  
2. One-year access to the SAFe® Community Platform  
3. 15 PMI PDUs offered  
4. Certification Outline: SAFe® Product Manager  

The test is taken after finishing the course.  

• Exam: SAFe® Product Manager  
• Language: English  
• Passing score: 73%  
• Time limit: 90 minutes  
• Number of Questions: 45  
• Format: Multiple choice (one answer) or multiple select (2-3 answers), Closed Book  
• Difficulty: Intermediate

7. PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) ®

It is anticipated that one of PMI's newest certificates, PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) ®, would transcend other agile credentials and overtake them to become the industry standard over the next several years. If you're seeking the best product owner certification, the PMI-ACP stands out by offering official recognition for your familiarity with agile principles and proficiency with agile methodologies. Your practical, hands-on experience and expertise as a member of an agile team are demonstrated by the PMI-ACP. 

It encompasses a variety of agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, extreme programming (XP), and test-driven development (TDD), and does not restrict a practitioner to a single agile methodology. This PMI-ACP test prep course is intended to educate you on the concepts and methods of agile development, including Scrum, XP, and Lean, in addition to helping you get ready for the exam. Don't miss this chance; sign up for one of our PMI-ACP test preparation courses.  

• Rating: 4/5   
• Pricing: It costs around 435 $ for members and 495$ for non-members.  
• Who can take PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP): Agile learners who want to learn more about project management.

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Recommended Certification Training

You may download course outline and relevant learning materials from Project Management Institute.  

Certification outline: It includes pre-requisites  

1. Secondary education  
2. Agile methods training for 21 contact hours  
3. project experience of 12 months. Although it is not necessary to have a current PMP® or PgMP® to apply for the PMI-ACP, it will meet this prerequisite.
4. 8 months of experience working on agile projects during the previous 3 years
5. You have three hours to complete the 120 multiple-choice questions on the certification test.  
6. Every three years, you must obtain 30 PDUs in agile subjects to keep your PMI-ACP certification current. 

8. Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (ACSPO) 

Agility 11 

Building upon one’s foundational knowledge, the Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (A-CSPO) is one of the best product owner certification to take your expertise to the next level. This advanced certification involves a more strategic approach to product ownership, focusing on stakeholder engagement and product vision.

• Job Role: Advanced product backlog management and strategic role in product development.
• Who can take the ACSPO certification: Experienced CSPO to advance their career, POs with at least 1 year, and anyone in the product field. 

Recommended Certification Training

Certification outline: It includes pre-requisites  

• An existing active or expired CSPO certification 
• At least 12 months of work experience related to product owner (in last five years). 

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Benefits of Getting Product Owner Certification 

Reflecting on my journey, the benefits of obtaining a product owner certification are manifold: 

1. Credibility and Recognition: As a certified Product Owner, my expertise is recognized and respected in the Agile community. The certifications serve as a testament to my commitment and proficiency in product management within Agile frameworks. 
2. Enhanced Decision-Making: These certifications have honed my decision-making skills, especially in prioritizing product features and balancing stakeholder demands. The deeper understanding of Agile principles has empowered me to make more informed and effective decisions. 
3. Expanded Career Opportunities: Each certification has unlocked new career paths, positioning me for roles with greater responsibility and visibility. The diverse range of certifications has allowed me to explore various facets of product ownership, from Scrum-based roles to SAFe environments. 
4. Increased Salary Potential: The pursuit of these certifications has been financially rewarding. With each certification, I've witnessed a notable increase in my earning potential, reflecting the market's value for certified professionals. 
5. Networking Opportunities: My journey through these certifications has connected me with a diverse network of Agile professionals, providing opportunities for collaboration, learning, and career advancement. 
6. Continuous Learning and Growth: These certifications have fostered a culture of continuous learning in my professional life. They keep me updated with the latest trends and best practices in Agile product management. 
7. Improved Product Management Skills: From backlog management to stakeholder negotiation, the certifications have refined my product management skills, enhancing my ability to deliver value effectively. 
8. Global Recognition: Certifications like PMI-ACP® are recognized globally, and can provide you with opportunities to work in diverse organizational settings and cultural contexts. 
9. Adaptability to Various Agile Environments: Having certifications in different Agile methodologies, I can adapt my approach to suit various team dynamics and organizational cultures. 
10. Leadership and Influence: These certifications have bolstered my confidence and ability to lead teams and influence strategic decisions related to product development. 

What Points to Consider When Choosing Product Owner Certification?

Selecting the right Product Owner certification is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Here are some critical considerations: 

1. Alignment with Career Goals: Your choice of certification should align with your long-term career objectives. As a PSPO, I chose this path to deepen my expertise in Scrum, which was in line with my goal of leading Scrum teams in product development. 
2. Organizational Requirements: The Agile framework adopted by your organization should influence your certification choice. For instance, if your organization primarily uses SAFe, then the SAFe® POPM certification would be more relevant. 
3. Personal Interest and Aptitude: Consider where your interests lie. Are you more inclined towards understanding the intricacies of Scrum, or do you prefer a broader Agile perspective? Your personal inclination will guide you to the most suitable certification. 
4. Market Demand and Recognition: Research the market demand for different certifications. Some certifications, like the CSPO and PMI-ACP®, are highly sought after in the job market and can significantly boost your employability. You can visit the KnowledgeHut CSPO Course if you are interested in pursuing CSPO 
5. Investment in Time and Resources: Evaluate the investment required for each certification in terms of time, effort, and money. Some certifications may require a substantial commitment to training and exam preparation. 
6. Networking Opportunities: Consider the networking opportunities that come with each certification. Professional communities and events associated with these certifications can be invaluable for career growth. 
7. Learning and Development Opportunities: Assess the learning opportunities each certification offers. While some focus on practical application, others might offer more strategic insights into product ownership. 
8. Flexibility and Accessibility: The mode of training (online or in-person) and the flexibility of the course schedule can be crucial, especially for working professionals. 
9. Continuing Education Requirements: Understand the renewal and continuing education requirements of each certification. Some certifications require ongoing learning and periodic renewal. 
10. Personal Learning Style: Finally, consider your learning style. Do you prefer self-study or structured classroom learning? Choose a certification that aligns with your preferred learning approach.

Roles and Responsibilities of Product Owner

The Product Owner has a wide range of Responsibilities in an organization. Some of them are  

1. Know Your Scrum Team   
2. Create Product Vision Board   
3. Know The Stakeholders   
4. Create a Product Roadmap   
5. Create Story Map   
6. Create Release Plan   
7. Develop Product Backlog   
8. Sprint Planning   
9. Monitoring Progress   
10. Product Backlog Grooming   
11. Sprint Review   
12. Sprint Retrospective

Elevate your career with our certified PMP training online. Master project management and reach new heights. 

Take a deep dive into the trending  Agile Category Courses  

CSM Certification	CSPO Certification	Leading SAFe Certification
PSM Certification	SAFe Scrum Master Certification	SAFe SPC Certification
SAFe RTE Certification	SAFe POPM Certification	ICP-ACC Certification

Conclusion

Obtaining the best product owner certification is pivotal for professionals in this field. Product owners serve as the team's point of contact with consumers. This implies that they oversee collaborating with user groups and stakeholders to ascertain their needs. Then they prioritize and debate these concepts in cooperation with the Scrum Master and the development team, shaping them into features that will be developed. This makes obtaining as many certificates as necessary to advance a product owner's career even more advantageous. 

In conclusion, if someone wants to thrive in 2024 and beyond, they should make it a habit to consistently study. This is true for everyone who wants to either become a product owner or advance in their profession until they do.  

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